Challenges Faced by Michael Jordan: Obstacles and Turning Points

Resilience and perseverance in the journey of Michael Jordan. A timeline of obstacles and growth.

Michael Jordan, often known as MJ, is a businessman and former professional basketball and baseball player. Dominating the NBA from 1984-2003, he secured six NBA championships with the Chicago Bulls. Jordan is widely considered one of the greatest basketball players ever. He played a key role in globally popularizing the sport and the NBA in the 80s and 90s, becoming a global icon. As of 2025, he is also the world's richest athlete.

Sections (6)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Legacy & Impact

1986: Recovery from Foot Injury

Michael Jordan completely recovered in time for the 1986–87 season after breaking his foot in the third game of the 1985-86 season.

July 23, 1993: Murder of James R. Jordan Sr.

On July 23, 1993, James R. Jordan Sr., Michael Jordan's father, was murdered at a highway rest area in Lumberton, North Carolina. Two teenagers carjacked his Lexus and dumped his body in a South Carolina swamp.

October 6, 1993: Jordan Announces His Retirement

On October 6, 1993, Michael Jordan announced his retirement from basketball, citing a loss of desire to play. He later stated that the murder of his father three months prior contributed to his decision.

1993: Jordan Seen Gambling in Atlantic City During NBA Playoffs

During the 1993 NBA playoffs, Michael Jordan was seen gambling in Atlantic City. That same year, author Richard Esquinas claimed he had won $1.25 million from Jordan on the golf course.

1993: Third NBA Title and First Retirement

In 1993, Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls won their third consecutive NBA title, completing a three-peat. Jordan then abruptly retired before the 1993–94 NBA season to play Minor League Baseball.

1993: Rumors of Secret Suspension for Gambling

In 1993, Michael Jordan retired, resulting in rumors of secret suspension for gambling. In 1995 and 2006 David Stern, the commissioner of the NBA, denied the rumors.

1995: NBA Denies Gambling Suspension Rumors

In 1995, David Stern, the commissioner of the NBA, denied that Michael Jordan's 1993 retirement was a secret suspension by the league for gambling.

1998: Jordan's Advice to Wizards Owner During 1998 Labor Dispute

During the 1998 labor dispute, Michael Jordan told Washington Wizards then-owner Abe Pollin: "If you can't make a profit, you should sell your team."

2001: Jordan Injures Right Knee

In 2001-02, Michael Jordan injured his right knee, ending a long streak of not missing four or more games while active for a full season since 1986-87.

January 4, 2002: Jordans File for Divorce, Reconcile

On January 4, 2002, Michael and Juanita Jordan filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences, but reconciled shortly thereafter.

May 7, 2003: Jordan Fired by Wizards

On May 7, 2003, Wizards owner Abe Pollin fired Michael Jordan from his role as Director of Basketball Operations.

July 21, 2006: Jordan Wins Breach of Contract Claim

On July 21, 2006, a judge determined that Michael Jordan did not owe Karla Knafel $5 million in a breach of contract claim. The claim originated from an alleged affair and promise of payment for silence.

2006: NBA Denies Gambling Suspension Rumors Again

In 2006, David Stern, the commissioner of the NBA, again denied that Michael Jordan's 1993 retirement was a secret suspension by the league for gambling.

2010: Director of Jordan Rides the Bus Denies Gambling Suspension

In 2010, Ron Shelton, director of Jordan Rides the Bus, stated that research convinced him that the rumors about secret suspension for gambling were nonsense.

Loading Video...

2011: Jordan Leads Hardline Owners During NBA Lockout

During the 2011 NBA lockout, The New York Times wrote that Michael Jordan led a group of hardline owners who wanted to cap the players' share of basketball-related income.

2011: Bobcats' Poor Record in 2011-12 Season

During the 2011–12 NBA season that was shortened to 66 games by the lockout, the Bobcats posted a 7–59 record and closed out the season with a 23-game losing streak, resulting in the worst winning percentage in NBA history at .106. Before the next season, Jordan expressed his frustration.